pennsylvania state veterans commission...dates of last inspection pa department of health 03/2019...

Pennsylvania State Veterans Commission6 September 2019 at 10:00 AM Southwestern Veterans’ Center

1000 (5) CALL TO ORDER Chairman Sam Petrovich

Moment of Silence Vice-Chairman Ed Burris

Pledge of Allegiance Chairman Sam Petrovich

1005 (5) Commission introductions

1010 (5) Oath of Office BG Mark Schindler

Robert E. John TAL, Leonard M. Johnson DAV, Frank J. Bokan MOPH,

Paul Shipley AMVETS

1015 (5) Approval June 7th meeting minutes REQUIRES A VOTE

1020 (10) DMVA Military Update BG Mark Schindler

1030 (15) VISN 4 Update Mr. Tom Liezert

OLD BUSINESS

1045 (2) DMVA, Policy, Planning & Legislative Affairs Ms. Katie Merritt

1047 (5) DMVA, Bureau of Veterans Homes Mr. Andrew Ruscavage

1052 (15) DMVA, Bureau of Programs, Initiatives, Reintegration and Outreach (PIRO) Mr. Joel Mutschler

1107 (2) Approval of Programs Report (Report provided by DMVA) REQUIRES A VOTE

1109 (11) Act 66 Committee report

1120 (5) RETX Committee report Mr. Matthew Zamosky

1125 (5) Legislative Committee report Chairman Sam Petrovich

1130 (5) Pensions & Relief/Grave markings Committee report

1135 (5) Chairman Sam Petrovich

1140 (5) REQUIRES A VOTE



1158 (2)

1200 Chairman Sam Petrovich

Bylaws Committee

NEW BUSINESS

Hall of Fame

Nominee: Janice Gavern

Good of the Order

Discussion topics for next meeting

Friday, October 11, 2019 @ 10:00am

Arrowheads Community Center

ADJOURNMENT RETIRING OF COLORS

Chairman Sam Petrovich

DMVA MILITARY UPDATE

> country> community > commonwealth

CURRENT AND FUTURE UNIT MOBILIZATIONS

As of 14AUG19

Total PANG Mobilized: 721

Current ANG Unit Airmen Mob: 208Current ANG Individual Mob: 26Total: ANG Mob: 234

ARNG Unit Soldiers in Theater: 168ARNG Soldiers at MOB/DEMOB Site: 370

ARNG Individual Mob:19 Total ARNG Mob:538


CURRENT MOBILIZATIONS & TOTAL DEPLOYMENTS

PAARNG Current Deployments

MDATE MSAD UNIT OPN PAX MISSION Projected ReturnDate

30 SEP 15 03 OCT 15 DET 1 2/104th OEF-KU 24 MEDEVAC 02 NOV 16

07 JAN 16 09 JAN 16 2IBCT KFOR 96 SECURITY 07 JAN 17

29 JAN 16 01 FEB 16 2 IBCT NATO 33 KFOR-OJG 29 POSTAL 27JAN 17/18 FEB 17

11 MAY 16 14 MAY 16 28ID 1-110th OEF UAE/OIR 370 SECFOR/TNG o/a 14JUN17

Various Individual MOB Soldiers 19 Various Missions TBD

Total PAARNG Deployed: 538

Total PANG Deployed 725

As of 14AUG19

Unit Opn Pax193 SOW OIR/SS 120111 ATKW IPR (HS)/Various 36/12171 ARW Alert Status (HS)/OIR 37/29

234

PAANG Current Deployments

Total PAANG Deployed

VISN 4 Access – Fiscal Year 2019 Wait Times

> country> community > commonwealth September 2019 Update

ClinicsFY19 thru July 13

Number of Appointments Wait <30 Days Wait <30 Days Average Wait

ALL 2,117,982 2,001,804 95.7% 5Mental Health 309,057 297,631 97.6% 3.4Primary Care 477,800 467,897 97.9% 3.5Specialty Care 834,492 755,652 93.0% 7.4

VISN 4 Access – Current Average Wait Times

> country> community > commonwealth September 2019 Update

Wait times as of 8/5/19 for last 30 days. accesstocare.va.gov

New Patients

Returning Patients

New Patients

Returning Patients

James E. Van Zandt VAMC 17 7 6 4Abie Abraham HCC 16 1 11 4Coatesville VAMC 15 3 14 3Erie VAMC 20 5 11 2Lebanon VAMC 17 4 12 3Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VAMC 24 5 15 2

VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System20 (Hz)18 (UD)

5 (Hz)7 (UD)

11 (Hz)6 (UD)

4 (Hz)1 (UD)

Wilkes‐Barre VAMC 14 3 15 7Wilmington VAMC 18 4 10 2

Primary Care Mental Health CareVISN 4 Facility

VISN 4 Trust Data – Inpatients

> country> community > commonwealth September 2019 Update% of responses with agree or strongly agree

Statement for Response All of FY16 All of FY17 All of FY18 FY19 thru May National"I got the service I needed"(Effectiveness) 88.1 87.8 89.6 87.8 88.1"It was easy to get the service I needed"(Ease) 83.4 83.7 83.4 83.4 83.3"I felt like a valued customer"(Emotion) 84.3 85 84.2 85.4 84.9"I trust VA to fulfill our country's commitment to Veterans"(Trust) 83.6 84 85.3 85.5 84.8

VISN 4 Trust Data – Outpatients


Statement for Response All of FY16 All of FY17 All of FY18 FY19 thru May National"I got the service I needed"(Effectiveness) 85.9 86.2 87.6 87.8 82.8"It was easy to get the service I needed"(Ease) 79.1 80.4 81.3 81.9 74.8"I felt like a valued customer"(Emotion) 80.5 81.8 83.0 83.8 77.4"I trust VA to fulfill our country's commitment to Veterans"(Trust) 75.4 78.2 81 80 74.6

VISN 4 Trust Data – Specialty Care Outpatients


Statement for Response All of FY16 All of FY17 All of FY18 FY19 thru April National"I got the service I needed"(Effectiveness) 84.2 85.3 85.5 85.4 83.2"It was easy to get the service I needed"(Ease) 75.8 78.1 76.8 79.0 74.4"I felt like a valued customer"(Emotion) 79.2 79.9 79.9 81.5 78"I trust VA to fulfill our country's commitment to Veterans"(Trust) 73.9 76.8 76.1 78.8 75.5

Policy Planning and Legislative Affairs

> country> community > commonwealth June 2019 Update

DMVA Priority Legislation – Veterans

Global War on Terror Bonus – Senator Iovinno, the Democratic Chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs Emergency Preparedness Committee (VA&EP). (awaiting introduction)

Real‐estate Tax Exemption – Rep Sainato Democratic Chair of the House VA&EP Committee. Includes the SVC recommendations (awaiting introduction)

Veterans Preference Language – draft provided to House and Senate VA&EP Committee Executive Staff. (awaiting introduction)

Policy Planning and Legislative Affairs

> country> community > commonwealth June 2019 Update

Upcoming Bills

HB 1380 (Boback) ‐ Amends Titles 30 (Fish) & 34 (Game), in fishing licenses, for active duty military fishing reciprocity & disabled veteran annual fishing license reciprocity; &, for active duty military & disabled veteran hunting reciprocity. – Passed House 06/27/19

HB 1521 (Pashinski) ‐ Amends Title 3 (Agriculture), in Pennsylvania Preferred Trademark, providing for military veterans. – Passed House now in Senate Ag & Rural Affairs

HB 1609 (O’Mara) ‐ Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) contributing to Veterans' Trust Fund renewing driver's license/registration – Passed House 6/20/19

SR 170 (Iovino) ‐ Directs Joint State Government Commission to establish task force to study coordination of veterans' services in commonwealth among federal, state, local, and nonprofit programs – Set on Senate Calendar for 9/19/19

PVH Current Licensure Status

Regulatory Agency DVVH GMVC HVH PSSH SEVC SWVC

Dates of Last Inspection

PA Department of Health

03/2019Full Standard

Licensure Status


Licensure Status


Licensure Status


Licensure Status


LicensureStatus


Licensure Status

PA Department of Human Services

N/A N/A


Licensure Status

08/2019*Full Standard

Licensure Status


Licensure Status

N/A

US Department of Veterans Affairs


Licensure Status


Licensure Status


Licensure Status


Licensure Status


Licensure Status


Licensure Status

Each DMVA Pennsylvania Veterans’ Home is currently licensed by the PA Department of Health, PA Department of Human Services and certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. HVH, PSSH, and SEVC have a Personal Care program.Last updated: 8-15-2019 *PSSH final report from survey in progress, full licensure expected


BUREAU OF VETERANS’ HOMES

Commandant – Peter Ojeda2701 Southampton Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19154County of PhiladelphiaOpened December 2002

Delaware Valley Veterans’ Home

Level of Care Available Beds

Skilled Nursing 100

Secure 30

Total: 130

*Note: 41 additional beds in renovation project



Gino J. Merli Veterans’ Center

Commandant – Jim Miller401 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503County of LackawannaOpened: January 1994


Skilled Nursing 156

Secure 40

Total: 196



Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Center

Commandant – Debbie Nesbella138 Veterans Blvd., Duncansville, PA 16635County of BlairOpened: June 1977


Skilled Nursing 231

Secure 26

PersonalDomiciliary

10166

Total: 424



Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home

Commandant – Barb Raymond560 E. Third St., Erie, PA 16507County of ErieOpened: February 1886(133‐Years of Service)

Level of CareAvailable Beds

Skilled Nursing 75

Secure 32

Personal 80

DomiciliaryTotal

20207



Southeastern Veterans’ Center

Commandant – Rohan BlackwoodOne Veterans Dr., Spring City, PA 19475County of ChesterOpened: December 1986*Community Living Center Newest Building in thePA Homes system opened 7/31/2012

**Elena Tedesco ADHC Coordinator

Level of Care Available BedsSkilled Nursing 208

Secure 30

Personal 54

Adult Day Health Care** (Jan 2021)

30

Total: 322



Southwestern Veterans’ Center

Commandant – Rich Adams7060 Highland Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15206County of AlleghenyOpened: November 1997


Skilled Nursing 196

Dementia 40

Total: 236


Bureau of Programs, Initiatives, Reintegration and Outreach

Initiatives Meetings/Events

GAC‐VS Contact Us

• 5 Sep – PWVC• 6 Sep – SVC, SWVC• 9 Sep – FTIG All Hands• 12 Sep – Coatesville VAMC AC & PA CARES MTG• 23 Sep – Pittsburgh VAMC AC – Univ. Drive• 2‐4 Oct ‐ VSO Training, Erie• 10 Oct – PAWVC• 11 Oct ‐ SVC, FTIG

Community Outreach Event may be found by clicking on the Events Calendar at www.dmva.pa.gov

• Regionalization Update• Concept & Implementation Briefing Document distributed.• Primed to hire Regional Program Outreach Coordinator for

Region 5. Regions 1 through 4 to follow.• Proof of Concept for Information & Referral Database has been

launched in Region 5 (SE portion of the commonwealth).• Resources continually be added to Information & Referral

Database.• Resource account for PA VET CONNECT now available:

RA‐MVVET‐[email protected]

• Judiciary Committee• Conducted outreach to the Veteran Service Units• 25% increase in the number of PA Veterans Courts in

2019. Five new VTCs include: Armstrong, Lycoming,Lebanon, Indiana, and Westmoreland Counties.

• Aging Committee• Partnership between DMVA and PDA to reach veterans

through PACE. Education on PACE for VSOs, VISN, andcommunity providers

• Established Expanding Long‐Term Care Services Optionsto Veterans subcommittee. Report due to Governor’sOffice Dec. 31, 2019

We want to hear from you. If you have ideas/initiatives that you want to share with DMVA, please contact Mr. Joel Mutschler, PIRO Bureau Director, at 717‐861‐8910 or RA‐VA‐[email protected].

Community Outreach Event may be found by clicking on the Events Calendar at www.dmva.pa.gov

> Technology> People > Processes

PERSIAN GULF BONUS PROGRAM SUMMARYVETERANS TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE

$955,000

0%

50%

100%

FY 17‐18 FY 18‐19 FY 19‐20

76 Claimants on the program

Lapse $0

Projected Expenditures$ 851,330

Expended $ 103,670

> country> community > commonwealth As of 16 Aug 2019

585 567


PERSIAN GULF BONUS PROGRAM SUMMARYBLIND VETERANS PENSION

$222,000

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Lapse

Projected Expenditure$ 191,400

Expended $ 30,600


FY17-18103

102 Veteranson the program

FY18-19 102

FY19-20


PERSIAN GULF BONUS PROGRAM SUMMARYAMPUTEE & PARALYZED VETERANS PENSION

$3,714,000


0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Lapse $

Projected Expenditure$ 3,119,850

Expended $ 594,150

1,980 Claimants

1,908

FY17-18 FY18-19

1,954

FY19-20


PERSIAN GULF BONUS PROGRAM SUMMARYEDUCATIONAL GRATUITY

As of 15 Jan 14


0%

50%

100%

FY 17‐18 FY 18‐19 FY 19‐20

$120,000Lapse $0

Projected Expenditure $ 118,500

Expended $ 1,500

154 Applications Received

141 Claimants

132 Claimants


PERSIAN GULF BONUS PROGRAM SUMMARYDISABLED VETERANS TAX EXEMPTION PROGRAM

As of 15 Jan 14



PERSIAN GULF BONUS PROGRAM SUMMARYDISABLED VETERANS’ RETX PROGRAM

As of 15 Jan 14


*1,408 Applications Adjudicated since 18 May 2019


PERSIAN GULF BONUS PROGRAM SUMMARYMILITARY FAMILY RELIEF ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

As of 15 Jan 14


OVERALL MFRAP CONTRIBUTIONS - FY 2005 THRU 16 August 2019

TOTAL PRIVATE CONTRIBUTIONS $ 130,316.83

DEPT OF REVENUE - PIT DONATIONS $ 1,766,948.50

TOTAL ALL CONTRIBUTIONS - PRIVATE & PIT DONATIONS $ 1,897,365.33

APPROVED GRANT APPLICATION PAYMENTS $ 874,921.86

ACCOUNT BALANCE $ 1,022,443.47

Pennsylvania Veterans Memorial Trust Fund

Beginning Trust Fund Balance (July 1, 2019) $278,760.97

Grants Received 0

Public / Private Donations $700

License Plate Donations $115

Interest $572.85

Refunds of Expenditures $0

Total Receipts $1,387.85

Expenses ($2,960.26)

Ending Balance $277,188.56

PENNSYLVANIA VETERANS MEMORIAL

> country> community > commonwealth 31 Jul 2019


OVA/ VSO GRANT PROGRAM

As of 6 September 19

FY 19 - 20Claims, Compensation and Pension Summary

Year to Date Claims Submitted Year to Date Value of Awards

0 $0.00

FY 18 - 19Claims, Compensation and Pension Summary

Year to Date Claims Submitted Year to Date Value of Awards

25,494 $344,517,683.00


OUTREACH ENGAGEMENTS

As of 6 September 19

Outreach Statistics 1st Qtr 2nd Qtr 3rd Qtr 4th Qtr Year to Date

Outreach Events Supported 2 2Mobile Outreach Van Events 0 0Veteran Interactions 12 12Claim referrals to County Directors and Service Organizations 2 2

Legislator Attended Events 0 0

Upcoming Events – September

• Legislative Events – Representative Keller’s Senior Expo

• Events – None

• Legislators Attending Events – None

VETERANS’ TRUST FUND

> country> community > commonwealth As of 14 August 19

VTF ReportSource Week Month to Date Fiscal Year Total Total # HOV Sold

Appropriation Transfer to VTF $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $1,700,000.00HOV License Plate $0.00 $195.00 $465.00 31 $48,585.00 3,239PA Monuments LP $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 0 $0.00 0HOV Motorcycle License Plate $0.00 $45.00 $90.00 6 $2,910.00 194HOV Women's License Plate $0.00 $120.00 $195.00 13 $270.00 18Checkoff & Donations $33,524.00 $71,521.00 $221,218.66 $9,391,905.52Veterans Trust Fund Online Donations $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $4,340.00SECA Donations $0.00 $2,004.28 $2,004.28 $4,451.65Interest $0.00 $0.00 $5,016.57 $131,933.77VSO $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $700,000.00PENNDOT Costs (SFY 16‐17) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $194,000.00PENNDOT Costs (SFY 15‐16) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $194,000.00PENNDOT Costs (SFY 14‐15) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $194,000.00PENNDOT Costs (SFY 13‐14) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $194,000.00VTF Grant NOFA (SFY 18‐19) $0.00 $0.00 $8,101.00 $725,400.00VTF Grant NOFA (SFY 17‐18) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $778,929.18VTF Grant NOFA (SFY 16‐17) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $641,329.75VTF Grant NOFA (SFY 15‐16) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $502,126.03VTF Grant NOFA (SFY 14‐15) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $472,473.67VTF Grant NOFA (SFY 13‐14) $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $442,020.00Veteran Programs Training $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $4,900.00Veterans Assistance $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $22,901.34VTA $26,201.00 $47,666.00 $102,310.00 3,718,372.32Working Balance $7,323.00 $26,219.28 $118,578.51 $2,499,943.65 3,451

> community > commonwealth > country

NEXT MEETING

Friday, OCTOBER 11, 2019 at 10:00AM

Arrowheads Community CenterFort Indiantown GapAnnville, PA 17003

*Visit www.svc.pa.gov for all SVC info.*Approved at the October 14, 2016 State Veterans’ Commission Meeting

1

State Veterans CommissionMeeting Minutes

June 7th, 201910:00 AM to 11:41 AM

Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ HomeErie, PA 16507

Call to Order Vice-Chairman Edgar BurrisThe Pennsylvania State Veterans Commission (SVC) meeting was called to order at 10:00 AM by Vice-Chairman Edgar Burris.

Moment of Silence and Pledge of Allegiance The meeting was opened with a moment of silence by Vice-Chairman Burris and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance led by Vice-Chairman Edgar Burris.

Commission Introductions Brig Gen Michael Regan Deputy Adjutant General-AirChairman Samuel Petrovich (conference call) Chairman, State Veterans Commission Maj Gen (Ret) Eric Weller Deputy Adjutant General for Veterans AffairsMr. Boyd Simpson Designee, AMVETSMr. John Pliska Executive Director, AMVETSMr. Thomas Hanzes Commander, Veterans of Foreign Wars Mr. Robert Heister Designee, Military Officers Association of AmericaMr. Edgar Burris Member at Large/SVC Vice-Chairman Mr. Alan Will Designee, Blind Veterans of America Mr. Robert Hill President, Military Order of the Purple HeartMr. Matthew Zamosky President, PA State Association of County Directors of

Veterans Affairs.Mr. Thomas Haberkorn Commander, Vietnam Veterans of America Mr. James Vollrath (conference call) Commander, The American Legion Mr. Kit Watson (conference call) Adjutant, The American Legion Mr. John Cyprian Member at LargeMr. Robert Ziltz Commandant, Marine Corps League Mr. Gary Stopyra Commander, Disabled American Veterans Mr. John Brenner Member at LargeMs. Constance Snavely (conference call) Member at Large

Others Present Mr. John Gennaro VISN 4Mr. Thad Plasczynski PSACDVA/Erie CountyMrs. Wendy Zamosky GuestMrs. Nancy Burris GuestMs. Elizabeth Pettis DMVA - Chief CounselMs. Katie Merritt DMVA - Policy, Planning & Legislative AffairsMr. Joel Mutschler DMVA – PIROMs. Mia Woods DMVA – BVHCommandant Barbra Raymond PA Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home Mr. Brian Natali DMVA-PIRO (Programs and Services)

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Mr. Rick Hamp DMVA-OVAMr. Greg Holler DMVA – PIRO (Programs and Services)

Approval of the April 5th, 2019 Meeting Minutes Motion: Mr. John Pliska made a motion to approve the minutes as distributed.Second: Mr. Alan Will seconded the motion.The body agreed; motion carried. Military Update Brig Gen ReganGeneral Regan briefed SVC members with a military update:

The Army National Guard started operations in Poland and Macedonia in support of European operations. The Air National Guard is about to move up two units with approximately 100 Airmen headed to central command over the summer. They will be gone about 90 to 120 days. As of this morning, 721 in total of PA National Guard soldiers & airmen are in some form of furlough mobilization. General Regan asked if there were any questions.

Questions/Discussions No questions/comments noted.

VISN 4 Mr. John GennaroMr. John Gennaro noted that SVC members had received his slides with updated information on leadership changes, Mission Act, patient experience, and whole health program. Mr. Gennaro briefed on the following:

Leadership/Staffing Update:

Mr. Tim Liezert continues as the acting Director of VISN 4 as of 120 days ago and remains so. Mr. Donald Koenig is the Director of Pittsburgh Medical Center about 1 week ago. He previously served in the military as a JAG and president at local facilities in Ohio, Mercy Health Partners. Good military and private sector experience and we are confident he will do a great job running the Pittsburgh VA. Ms. Karen Flaherty-Oxler is the Director of Philadelphia Medical Center. She was the previous VP chief nursing experience for Atlanta Healthcare system. That announcement just came today. Effective date is forthcoming. Ms. Patricia O’Kane will continue as the acting director until Ms. Flaherty-Oxler completes her onboarding (approx. 30 – 45 days).

Mission Act

Many veterans should have received a letter related to the Mission Act (effective 6/6/2019) and all the changes that come along with it. It enhances internal systems and strengthens our opportunities to partner in network with private sector facilities in delivery of healthcare. A fact sheet is available if anyone would like one. The main tenant of the Mission Act included an urgent care benefit over the past 24 months. Check themissionact.VA.gov website to make sure sites you are going to are within the network of urgent care centers. Check with a local VA veterans service officer to make sure you are eligible for benefits.

Drive times & wait times:

Wait times - Specialty care is 28 days & Primary care is 20 days. If these times are exceeded, the veterans will be eligible and given the choice to go to the community for care.

Drive times – Primary Care visits are 30 minutes & Specialty Care is 60 minutes. Outside of those drive times, veterans will be given the choice to go to other community facilities, a substantial new benefit for our veterans here and across the nation.

3

Patient Experience:

Test scores have continued to rise. VA continues to focus its effort which has been ongoing over the past 2 – 3 years on patient experience. VISN 4 has identified Butler and Lebanon to participate in the next wave of Whole Health implementation. These facilities will be part of the national Whole Health Learning Collaborative 2 and will focus efforts in one of three areas: enhancing Whole Health peer engagement, advancing Whole Health clinical care, or establishing employee Whole Health. The collaborative kicks off this month. In Erie we have been able to integrate complimentary alternative medicines into global healthcare. The Butler and Lebanon facilities are the next facilities that will have this program in the upcoming fiscal year. We can offer everything from acupuncture, chiropractic care, aromatherapy, and guided imagery as we educate our primary care staff. We have seen substantial improvements especially with chronic diseases. Patients can get off of multiple opioids and opioid/benzodiazepine combinations. This is a tremendous improvement and we will continue to see that across the VA system. Mr. Gennaro asked if there were any questions.

Questions/Discussion No questions/comments noted.

OLD BUSINESS DMVA Chief Counsel Ms. Elizabeth Pettis Ms. Pettis stated she didn’t have anything to report. Ms. Pettis asked if there were any questions.

Questions/Discussion No questions/comments noted. DMVA Policy, Planning & Legislative Affairs Ms. Katie MerrittMs. Merritt reported that priorities have not changed. Quite a few bills have been provided to senators/representatives that are awaiting adoption which include: Global War on Terrorism bonus, Real Estate Tax Exemption, Veteran’s Preference Language and DMVA Special Program Grant Authority. Two bills are expected to be voted on in the coming weeks:

1. Allow for a personal income tax screen to allow an individual to have a contribution made to the VeteransTrust Fund of $5.00 or more that will be tax deductible. 2. Fishing license reciprocity for active duty military and disabled veterans.

Senate Bill 441: Rename a bridge Sgt. Christopher M. Wrinkle and Tosca Memorial Bridge in York County, was cast.

No other updates currently. Ms. Merritt asked if there were any questions.

Questions/Discussion Mr. Burris questioned the bills that are forthcoming and to tell the commission numbers that are

assigned to those bills. Ms. Merritt responded that they haven’t been introduced so bill numbers have not been assigned yet.

When they are introduced, she will make sure that the commission receives that information.

DMVA Bureau of Veterans Homes Ms. Mia Woods

4

Mr. Ruscavage was absent and represented by Ms. Woods who confirmed that a slide was present in each packet of the current licensure status of each home. All homes are fully licensed and in good standing. A PA Governor’s week flyer is included in the packet as well. Ms. Woods asked if there were any questions.

Questions/Discussion No questions/comments noted. DMVA Bureau of PIRO Mr. Joel MutschlerMr. Mutschler confirmed that there was information in each packet for review. The regionalization initiative resource is being built across the commonwealth amongst our governmental and community partners. Everything is going well, and the project manager is on board and moving forward with that initiative. At the SVC April 5th, 2019 meeting Mr. Foster inquired as to the total percentage of payments we are sending to veterans living outside the commonwealth. Research revealed it was 5%. Household income/Real Estate Tax Exemption Program – if household incomes had been included it would have reduced approvals by about 25%. Mr. Mutschler asked if there were any questions.


Approval of Programs Reports Motion: Mr. Pliska made a motion to approve the programs report.Second: Mr. Will seconded the motion.The body agreed; motion carried. SVC Act 66 Committee Mr. Kit Watson Mr. Watson had no report. SVC RETX Committee Mr. Matthew Zamosky Mr. Zamosky had no report. SVC Legislative Committee Chairman Samuel PetrovichChairman Petrovich informed the members that several issues were to be looked into. The committee is doing so and will hopefully provide a full report for the commission at the next meeting.


SVC Pensions & Relief/Grave Marking/State Military Cemetery Committee Mr. John BrennerMr. Brenner reported to the members about the Blinded and Paralyzed Veterans’ Pension, Grave Markers/Headstones, and Memorials.

Blinded and Paralyzed Veterans’ Pension:

Presently the monthly amount is $150. Senate Bill (SB) 276 is asking for an increase to $180 a month, which would increase the budget $720,000. He would like Commission to support SB 276 and maybe apply to make the monthly amount $200, because there hasn’t been an increase since the early 1990’s. He would also like everyone to consider a cost of living allowance and for a means of increasing it on a regular basis.

Grave markers/Headstones:

There are many ways that our counties are supporting these efforts, which made it difficult in determining any regular standards. Post 9/11 markers and the concern that we are not getting the proper markers to go along with different periods of conflicts since 9/11. There are two examples floating around that have been purchased (Desert Storm 1990/91 and Global War on Terror, which have not been approved). The last approved marker is the Vietnam War marker, which is not accurate for those serving today. We should look at some type of

5

alternative like “Persian Gulf” marker from 1990 to today or bring that into post September 11th, 2001 and post 9/11 “War on Terror”. Commandant Raymond suggested that markers should be War on Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. We are setting goals to help improve issues with markers. We are finding the condition of many headstones, especially those from the older wars, to be broken or unidentifiable. Questions on whose responsibility is it to take care of this issue?

Memorials:

Committee discussed and that the state of PA (ACT 64 of 2018) changed the name of the memorial in Ft. Indiantown Gap to be dedicated to all PA Veterans and not just World War II. Money for the upkeep of this memorial comes from the PA Trust Fund and PA license plate sales. Donations from VA organizations we count on especially from small games of chance. So, we really do encourage each of the leaderships of those organizations to put the word out to get donations for the memorial in Ft. Indiantown Gap. The committee did set a few goals:

1. To work on establishing workable standards on our grave markers and do more studying on theguidelines for the upkeep of our veterans’ graves in PA.

2. Work on increasing monthly pension from $150 to $180 for blind/paralyzed veterans and incorporate acost of living (COLA) for these pensions.

3. Work on ways to get the word out to all involved and check on the condition of headstones and help getthem fixed.

Mr. Brenner asked if there were any questions.

Questions/Discussion

Discussion to clarify approval of report for increase of pension bill to $200. Mr. Burris informed members that it was on the report, so yes. General Weller informed members that Mr. Petrovich can bring it to the Budget 101 meeting in August to put it in front of General Carrelli because our submission goes in September and if something could get included and supported that would be great. Mr. Brenner asked if this is to be done as a committee for legislature? Ms. Merritt requested a copy of report be sent to her. Mr. Burris commented that if the broken headstones are provided by the VA, the broken stones can be replaced if a photo is taken and submitted. Mr. Petrovich commented that the Legislative Committee should work with DMVA in supporting the issue. It is a two-group effort. General Weller commented that the connection has already been made with those at Fort Indiantown Gap.

Motion: Mr. Pliska made a motion to support increase in Bill 276 with a COLA. Second: Mr. Hanzes seconded the motion.The body agreed; motion carried. Bylaws Discussion Chairman Petrovich Chairman Petrovich stated that the issues tasked to the legislative committee will be reported on at the next meeting.

Question/Discussion

6

No questions/comments noted.

NEW BUSINESS HB 863

HB 863 – a bill that we were asked to read/study that deals with the veteran’s lottery ticket. The ticket proceeds will provide a large percentage to the veterans’ community.

Motion: Mr. Haberkorn made a motion to approve HB 863.Second: Mr. Stopyra seconded the motion.The body agreed; motion carried.

Hall of Fame Mr. Burris announced that Ms. Mary Archey, Mr. Eugene Passarella and Mr. Edward Comly were nominees for induction into the hall of fame.

Motion: Mr. Brenner motioned to approve as a group into the hall of fame.Second: Mr. Hill seconded the motion. The body agreed; motion carried.

Good of The Order/Announcements Mr. Burris asked if there was anything further for the Good of The Order/Announcements.


For Next Meeting Chairman Petrovich stated topics for next meeting will be on the Agenda.

Next Meeting

Southwestern Veterans’ Center 7060 Highland Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15206

Adjournment Mr. Burris adjourned the meeting at 10:48 a.m.

The minutes of this meeting are respectfully submitted by:

Maj. Gen (Ret) Eric G. Weller Deputy Adjutant General

Veterans Affairs

Bureau of Veterans' Homes

Available Beds Monthly Status Report

from July 1 to 31, 2019

Delaware Valley Veterans' Home, Philadelphia - Peter Ojeda - Commandant

Level of Care Available Beds Beds Assigned Beds VacantAverage Beds

VacantPercentage Filled Waiting List Veteran

Nursing Care 100 94 0 94% 41

Secured 30 30 0 100% 14

Placing 0

TOTAL 130 124 0 4 95% 55

Non-Veteran Census Percent 2 5%

Gino J. Merli Veterans' Center, Scranton - James Miller - Commandant


VacantPercentage Filled

Waiting List

Veteran

Nursing Care 156 144 5 92% 4

Secured 40 37 3 93% 1

Placing 5

TOTAL 196 181 8 14 92% 0


Hollidaysburg Veterans' Home, Hollidaysburg - Deborah Nesbella - Commandant



Waiting List

Veteran

Nursing Care 231 205 25 89% 2

Secured 26 26 0 100% 0

Personal Care 101 62 39 61% 0

Domiciliary 66 50 16 76% 0

Placing 2

TOTAL 424 343 80 78 81% 0


Pennsylvania Soldiers' & Sailors' Home, Erie - Barbara Raymond - Commandant



Waiting List

Veteran

Nursing Care 75 71 4 95% 2

Secured 32 32 0 100% 3



Placing 3

TOTAL 207 178 29 28 86% 5


Southeastern Veterans' Center, Spring City - Rohan Blackwood - Commandant



Waiting List

Veteran

Nursing Care 208 204 4 98% 32

Secured 30 30 0 100% 7


Placing 5

TOTAL 292 287 5 8 98% 42


Southwestern Veterans' Center, Pittsburgh - Richard R. Adams - Commandant



Waiting List

VeteranNursing Care 196 184 7 94% 13

Secured 40 31 8 78% 2

Placing 2

TOTAL 236 215 15 20 91% 13


Recapitulation / Pennsylvania Bureau of Veterans' Homes



Waiting List

Veteran

Nursing Care 966 902 45 93% 94

Secured 198 186 11 94% 27

Personal Care 235 170 65 72% 11


Placing 17

TOTALS 1,485 1,328 137 147 89% 115


Non-Veteran Census Number

DVVH 5 5%

GMVC 22 13%

HVH 39 12%

PSSH 21 12%

SEVC 35 13%

SWVC 34 16%

Total 156 12%

RETX- Exempt list(New) -

mvfigsqlprod018/16/2019

rep_VADC_RETX_Exempt_List_New

Summary of Current Applications (Exempt)

Count No Activity Review Process Started

Review App Received

New Apps Pending

13433 13099 310 24 151

Summary of Activity from 05/18/2019 to 08/16/2019

Apps Created : 910

New 553

Review: 357

Apps Approved :1047

New 625

Review 422

Apps Denied Fin: 67

Apps Denied (Ineligible): 78

Apps Removed from Exempt List (No Response):

47

Apps Removed from Exempt List(Eligibilty Changed):

169

Summary of Inelgible Reason

Reason Count

Property Ownership Change 1

The property for which you claim exemption is not owned solely by you, or as an estate by the entirety with your spouse.

13

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has determined that the veteran did not have a total and/or 100% permanent disability during their lifetime.

15

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has determined that the veteran did not serve during a period of war or armed conflict.

13

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reported the service member~s death as a casualty while on active duty.

1

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stated that you have a future exam, therefore, your disability has not been rated as total or 100% permanent.

30

The U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs has determined that you did not serve during a period of war or armed conflict and you have a future exam, therefore, your disability has not been rated as total or 100% permanent.

2

You do not occupy the property for which you have claimed exemption as your principal dwelling. 1

Your disability has not been declared by the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs to be a total or 100% permanent disability.

2

Summary of Activity from 5/18/2019 to 8/16/2019

APPS APPROVED 1047

NEW 625

REVIEW 422

APPS DENIED

Financial Need 67

Ineligible 78

No Response 47

Change of Eligibility 169

HH Over Income 228 22%

NEW 177 28%

REVIEW 51 12%

APPS CREATED 910

TOTAL ADJUDICATED 1408

pennsylvania state veterans commission...dates of last inspection pa department of health 03/2019...

Documents